This is a plot for Kernza™ - intermediate wheatgrass - seed production. The area to the right is in the third year of growth; that to the left about two years old. Wheatgrass is a perennial relative of annual wheat and has a root system reaching nearly 10 feet deep protecting the soil year round. Wheatgrass produces a grain able to be milled and utilized for food production. It has potential as a food source for humans; crop production will require further development by crossing and selection of strains for desirable characteristics. Also, by crossing with annual wheat, strains will be selected for traits with both perenniality and production characteristics of wheat.
To learn more of our work at The Land Institute: www.landinstitute.org /
The wheatgrass plant: www.gigapan.org/viewGigapan.php?id=22553Another view of the contrast: www.gigapan.org/viewGigapan.php?id=6676